People havred winee been drinking wine for centuries. It was once a way to carry refreshment that would not spoil on long journeys before refrigeration existed. Now people sip wine to complement various foods and it has become a gourmet hobby. There are 12 good reasons to sip wine for health and happiness.
1. Wine is Good for Your Heart
Heart disease is a leading cause of death. Sipping wine can help ward off the possibility of developing heart disease. A Harvard School of Public Health study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine showed people with high blood pressure who were moderate drinkers were 30% less likely to suffer a heart attack than people who did not drink at all. Red wine tannins have procyandin, which help ward off heart disease.
2. Wine Can Improve Optical Health
Cataracts often develop as people get older and can cause seriously compromised vision. A study done about 10 years ago showed a significantly reduced risk of cataracts in people who drank red wine. It is easy to see why many people enjoy sipping a glass of red wine with dinner.
3. Boost Brain Power
Often people wonder if drinking will have a negative impact on their brain. A study showed moderate drinkers lost less brain power and function than those who do not drink. It seems moderation is the key when it comes to boosting your brain power.
4. Ward Off Type 2 Diabetes
People with diabetes are often advised to limit their intake of alcohol as it can cause serious blood sugar fluctuations. However, moderate drinking can be a way to ward off type 2 diabetes in the first place. A study published in the journal Diabetes Care showed people who drink moderately have a 30% reduced risk of getting type 2 diabetes over people who do not drink.
5. Live Longer
Some people feel life is not worth living if you can't have a glass of wine and a delicious meal. These people who indulge in these luxuries might be living longer than those who imbibe on other types of alcoholic beverages. A study in 2007 showed people who drink wine have a 34% lower mortality rate than people who sip on spirits or beer.
6. Wine May Lower the Risk of Prostate Cancer
As men get older, they worry about developing prostate cancer. Drinking red wine might be the answer according to studies published in the International Journal of Cancer. One glass per day can cut the risk in half of developing this type of cancer. Wine can also reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.
7. Lower the Risk of Alzheimer's and Dementia
Once again, the brain and memory can be improved by sipping on wine. A study showed people over 75 who had 2 glasses of wine each day had a lower risk of developing dementia than people who did not drink.
8. Wine and Food are the Ideal Couple
Nothing tastes better with gourmet food than a glass of well-chosen wine. A glass of white wine with a fish dinner is irresistible. A glass of red wine with pasta is tantalizing. There are even sweet wines that complement your favorite desserts. It is the ideal way to make any meal more special.
9. Wine Represents Romance
Few people can dispute two glasses of wine on the table create an intimate setting, especially when you light a candle. Add some strawberries and chocolate for the ultimate romantic moment. Wine definitely speaks the language of love like no other type of spirit.
10. Wine is Relaxing
After a long day, a glass of red wine is relaxing. It can ease tensions and wash away the stress of the day. It can even be effective for relieving the cramps associated with menstruation. Of course, the key is moderation. One glass is beneficial while several glasses becomes too much.
11. Wine Tastes Good
Much like chocolate, wine has a distinct flavor that caresses your palate. Trying different wines is a way to tantalize your taste buds.
12. Wine Tasting is Fun
Many people plan vacation and day trips around going to a vineyard with their friends and family. Wine tasting is fun and gives you a chance to sample a variety of different wines to find your favorite ones. If you don't live near a vineyard, companies such as the Traveling Vineyard bring the wine tasting experience to your home. It is sure to be one of the best parties of the year.